Electrical How-To bolt logoElectrical How-To

Add a Ceiling Light Fixture

intermediate
Ceiling light fixture being mounted to a ceiling box with a bracket and wire connectors
The fixture hangs from a bracket screwed to the ceiling box.
Safety first

Turn off the breaker and verify power is off before working. If you are not comfortable, hire a licensed electrician.

Step-by-step
1

Turn off the breaker and verify no power at the box.

Non-contact voltage tester held against an outlet slot to check for power
Touch a non-contact tester to the outlet or wires. No light or beep means the power is off.
2

Install a fixture-rated box if one does not exist; ceiling fans need a fan-rated box.

3

Connect fixture ground to box ground, white to white, and black to black (or the switched-hot).

Black, white, and bare copper wires joined with wire nuts inside a box
Match colors: black to black, white to white, bare copper to bare copper. Twist a wire nut on each pair.
4

Secure the fixture base and install the bulbs/trim.

5

Turn the breaker on and test the switch.

Pro tip for you

Make sure the ceiling box is rated for the weight of your fixture.

Tools
  • non-contact voltage tester
  • screwdriver
  • wire stripper
  • wire nuts
  • ladder
Materials
  • ceiling fixture or fan box
  • light fixture
  • wire nuts